Hand held dermaplaning device and dermaplaning process

ABSTRACT

A method and a hand-held device for dermaplaning is disclosed that includes a blade assembly which includes a blade, a blade holder and a safety cage. In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the safety cage limits the amount of penetration of the blade into the facial skin to enable the device to be safely used by non-professionals. The dermaplaning device includes a vibration generator that causes the blade to vibrate at a predetermined frequency. Various embodiments of the hand-held dermaplaning device are disclosed for vibrating the blade.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/868,756, filed Jan. 11, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 14/976,409, filed on Dec. 21, 2015, now U.S. Pat.No. 10,441,307, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser.No. 14/742,881, filed on Jun. 18, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,877,741,which is a continuation-in-part of International Application No.PCT/US2013/058708, filed on Sep. 9, 2013, which are herein incorporatedby reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to hand held device and process used intreating facial skin and more particularly to a hand held dermaplaningdevice for exfoliating facial skin that is safe to use bynon-professionals as well as a process for dermaplaning facial skin.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Various processes are known for treating facial skin. These processesare known to include hand-held devices and fall into several categoriesas follows:

Shaving

Cleansing and Moisturizing

Dermabrasion

Dermaplaning (Exfoliation)

Debridement

Shaving is used to remove facial hair by way of a razor. In addition tostandard safety razors, U.S. Pat. No. 3,509,626 and Russian Patent RU2320476 disclose safety razors with piezo-electric crystals attached tothe blade for vibrating the blade at ultrasonic frequencies duringshaving. These devices include a safety razor, a piezo-electric crystal,battery and a circuit for coupling the battery to the piezo-electriccrystal. These devices are used for removing excess hair from a person'sface and do not remove any skin. Such devices are configured fornon-professional use.

In addition to manual treatment, cleansing and moisturizing may beaccomplished by way of hand-held devices. For example, U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. U.S. 2005/0043653 A1 and U.S. Pat. Nos.5,931,859 and 6,119,035 disclose hand held devices for dispensing aliquid to a person's face. These devices include a cleansing mode inwhich a micro-current is applied to cleanse the skin. US PatentApplication Publication No. U.S. 2008/0139974 A1 discloses a hand helddevice for just applying a moisturizing liquid to a person's face. Anexample of such a device is also disclosed in:http:/www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1PcSf253cs.

Other hand-held devices are known for cleansing facial skin which relyon ultrasonic frequencies. Examples of these devices are disclosed inJapanese Patent No. JP20000060427; South Korean Patent Nos.: KR20040022550 and KR 20080006875. Additional examples of such devices canbe found at the following locations:http:/youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=jypKIrpGDIg&feature=fvwp;http:/youtube.com/watch?v=fmSS2uexmac and http:/dermasonic.com/how.html.Such devices are also configured for non-professional use.

Dermabrasion is a cosmetic surgical procedure for removing an outerlayer of skin by abrading the skin with fine sandpaper or wire brushesto remove scars or other imperfections. This procedure is used to abradethe skin down to the dermis. The dermis is a layer of skin between theepidermis and subcutaneous tissues that consist of connective tissue andcushions the body from stress and strain. Dermabrasion normally requiresan anesthetic and is normally done by medical professionals, such asdermatologists. Because of the possibility of infections and scarring,dermabrasion is a relatively unpopular choice for facial skin treatment.

Hand held devices for performing dermabrasion are known. Exemplaryhand-held devices used for dermabrasion are disclosed and described indetail in U.S. Pat. No. 8,052,662 and U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication Nos. U.S. 2003/0233085 A1; U.S. 2004/0185067 A1; U.S.2007/0293795 A1; U.S. 2009/0048557 A1; U.S. 2009/0124985 A1; and U.S.2013/0144280 A1. In general, such devices include an applicator havingan abrasive material applied to the surface. The applicator is attachedto a piezo-electric crystal for vibrating the applicator at ultrasonicfrequencies. The vibrating applicator is applied to areas of the face ofinterest. U.S. Pat. No. 7,384,405 discloses a hand-held device thatincludes a rotating brush with abrasive bristles. Hand-held dermabrasiondevices are known to be available for professional and non-professionaluse.

Debridement is a surgical technique performed by a licensed physicianfor removing unhealthy tissue, such as, necrotic, i.e., dead, infected,damaged, contaminated tissue or in situations to remove a foreign bodyin the tissue. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2012/0101512A1 discloses a hand held device that is known to be used fordebridement. The device includes blade carried by a handle. The blade isa small, dull flat blade operable to scrape the necrotic tissue awayfrom the tissue site without harming any of the healthy tissue locatedadjacent the necrotic tissue. A piezoelectric crystal is attached to theblade to vibrate the blade at ultrasonic frequencies. Such debridementdevices are only available for professional use.

Dermaplaning is a relatively popular process that is relatively simpleand safe and is used for exfoliating the epidermis, i.e. outer layer ofcells in the skin, and removing fine vellus hair, i.e. peach fuzz, fromthe skin. Dermaplaning is a process normally performed by licensed skincare professionals, such as, estheticians, because of the use of ascalpel or similar blade. Using a scalpel and a delicate touch, thescalpel is swept across the skin with light feathering strokes toexfoliate the skin. Exfoliation involves the removal of the oldest deadskin cells on the skin's outermost surface.

Dermaplaning facial skin has many benefits. For example, removingepidermal skin allows skin care products to penetrate more readily intodeeper layers of the skin for better results. As mentioned above,dermaplaning removes vellus hair which tends to cause a build-up of dirtand oils in the follicles. Removal of the hair results in healthierlooking skin.

Hand-held devices used for dermaplaning normally include a surgicalstyle scalpel consisting of a blade and a handle. Such scalpels are notavailable for non-professional use. As such, dermaplaning is onlyavailable at spas with licensed skin care professionals. Suchdermaplaning treatments at spas can be relatively expensive.Unfortunately, there are no known dermaplaning devices known fornon-professional home use. Thus, there is a need to provide a hand-helddevice and method for dermaplaning for non-professional use thatovercomes this problem.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly, the present invention relates a method and a hand-held devicefor dermaplaning facial skin that is relatively safe fornon-professional use. The hand-held device includes a blade assemblythat includes a blade, a blade holder and a safety cage that isremovably mounted to a housing. The safety cage limits the depth thatthe blade can penetrate the skin which makes the device safe for use bynon-professionals. Various embodiments of the hand-held dermaplaningdevice are contemplated. In one embodiment, a piezoelectric crystal isused to cause the blade to vibrate at ultrasonic frequencies. In analternate embodiment, a motor driving an eccentric load may be used forvibrating the blade assembly at other frequencies. In yet anotherembodiment, the motor with an eccentric load and the piezoelectriccrystal are selectively and alternatively used to vibrate the bladeassembly. In embodiments that include a motor, the motor speed may beoptionally adjustable to enable the vibration frequency to be varied. Adermaplaning process is also disclosed that can be used bynon-professionals.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

These and other advantages of the present invention will be readilyunderstood with reference to the following specification and attacheddrawing wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of an exemplary dermaplaning device inaccordance with one embodiment of the device which includes a vibrationgenerator which includes a piezo-electric crystal and a motor with aneccentric load.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the dermaplaning deviceillustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is side elevational view in section of the dermaplaning deviceillustrated in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 4a-4d is an exemplary schematic of a 4 phase rotary electricswitch for use with the present invention, wherein FIG. 4a discloses anOFF position; FIG. 4b illustrates a position in ultrasonic mode; FIG. 4cillustrates an intermediate OFF position and FIG. 4d illustrates a sonicmode.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary schematic for the dermaplaning device illustratedin FIG. 3 illustrating an embodiment that includes a piezoelectriccrystal, a motor with an eccentric load and an optional rheostat forcontrolling the speed of the motor.

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of an exemplary printed circuit board for usewith the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is similar to FIG. 1 but without the thumb-wheel.

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of a dermaplaningdevice that only includes a piezoelectric crystal.

FIG. 9 is side elevational view in section of the dermaplaning deviceillustrated in FIG. 8

FIG. 10 is an exemplary schematic diagram of the dermaplaning deviceillustrated in FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is an exemplary printed circuit board for use with thedermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is an exploded view of another alternate embodiment of adermaplaning device that only includes a motor and an eccentric load.

FIG. 13 is side elevational view in section of the dermaplaning deviceillustrated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13a is an alternate embodiment of the device illustrated in FIG. 12illustrating a removable blade.

FIGS. 13b, 13c and 13d illustrate how the removable blade is attached tothe scalpel.

FIG. 13e is a side elevational view illustrating the removable bladeattached to the scalpel.

FIG. 13f is similar to FIG. 13e but illustrating the removable bladeremoved from the scalpel.

FIG. 13g is another alternate embodiment of the of the deviceillustrated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is an exemplary schematic diagram of the dermaplaning deviceillustrated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 15 is an exemplary printed circuit board for use with thedermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 16 is a partial side elevational view of the dermaplaning device inaccordance with the present invention illustrating the removable bladeattached to a handle portion of the housing.

FIG. 16a is an enlarged partial view of the blade illustrating thesafety cage and an exemplary blade assembly.

FIG. 17 is a partial isometric view illustrating an exemplary bladeassembly with a blade cage.

FIG. 18 is a partial isometric view of an exemplary blade assembly,shown removed from the handle portion of the housing illustrating anexemplary bayonet type interface.

FIG. 19 illustrates a partial isometric view of a person using thedermaplaning device in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 20 is drawing of a face with the arrows illustrating the directionof the strokes of the dermaplaning device on a user's face.

FIG. 21 is a side elevational view of an alternate exemplary embodimentof the exemplary dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 1, shown withexemplary dimensions and shown with a blade assembly installed.

FIG. 22 is a partial enlarged view of the dermaplaning deviceillustrated in FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a top view of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 21,also shown with exemplary dimensions.

FIG. 24A is a side elevational view of the dermaplaning deviceillustrated in FIGS. 21-23 shown with the blade assembly removed.

FIG. 24B is similar to FIG. 24A shown with the dermaplaning deviceupside down to illustrate the guide rails on the dermaplaning device forslidably receiving a blade assembly.

FIG. 25A is an isometric view of the dermaplaning device illustrated inFIG. 21 shown carried by an exemplary portable stand.

FIG. 25B is an isometric view of the portable stand illustrated in FIG.25A.

FIG. 26 is an isometric view of the dermaplaning device and portablestand illustrated in FIG. 25B, shown tipped on its side to illustratethe bottom of the portable stand and the power connection.

FIG. 27A illustrates an enlarged partial sectional view of thedermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 21 shown with a blade insertedand the housing removed.

FIG. 27B is a more detailed elevational view of the dermaplaning deviceillustrated in FIG. 21, shown with the housing removed and mounted inthe portable stand illustrated in FIG. 25B, shown with a table ofcomponent parts keyed to reference numbers in circles.

FIG. 28 illustrates an exemplary blade assembly shown which include ablade, a blade holder and a safety cage.

FIG. 29 is a top view of an exemplary blade retainer for use in storingadditional blade assemblies as illustrated in FIG. 28.

FIG. 30 is a front elevational view of the blade retainer illustrated inFIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a side elevational view of the blade retainer illustrated inFIG. 29.

FIG. 32 is an exemplary electrical schematic drawing of the dermaplaningdevice illustrated in FIG. 21.

FIG. 33 is an exemplary software flow diagram of the for exemplarydermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 21.

FIG. 34 is a side elevational view of an exemplary vibration generatorfor use with the present invention.

FIG. 35 is a front elevational view of an exemplary vibration generator,illustrated in FIG. 34.

FIG. 36 is a partial side elevational view of one embodiment thedermaplaning device with a portion of the cover removed, illustrating ablade assembly control mechanism and shown with a blade assemblyinstalled.

FIG. 37 is a side elevational view illustrating the relationship betweena blade assembly control mechanism and a blade assembly.

FIG. 38 is a partial isometric view of an alternate embodiment of theblade retainer illustrated in FIG. 29, shown loaded with bladeassemblies, also shown with a partial isometric view of the dermaplaningdevice illustrated in FIG. 24B about to load a blade assembly.

FIG. 39 is a partial side elevational view with a portion of the housingremoved, also shown with a blade assembly partially loaded into thedermaplaning device.

FIG. 40 is a partial isometric view of a dermaplaning device after ablade assembly has been fully loaded, shown with the dermaplaning deviceremoved from the blade retainer.

FIG. 41 is a partial elevational view of a dermaplaning device asillustrated in FIGS. 21-23 with an alternative embodiment of the bladeassembly fully loaded with the housing removed illustrating therelationship between the alternative embodiment of the blade assemblyand the blade control mechanism.

FIG. 42 is similar to FIG. 41 but shown with the alternative bladeassembly removed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure includes a method and a hand-held device fordermaplaning that is relatively safe for non-professional use. Ingeneral, the hand-held device includes a blade assembly removablymounted to a housing. The blade assembly includes a blade or scalpel, ablade holder for carrying the blade and a safety cage. The safety cageis juxtaposed or disposed over the cutting edge of the blade whichlimits the amount of penetration of the blade into the facial skin. Assuch, use of the device enables non-professionals to safely performdermaplaning on a person's face.

Multiple exemplary embodiments of the dermaplaning device are describedand illustrated. All embodiments include an exemplary outer housing, forexample, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-18 and 21-23 and a blade assembly anda vibration generator,

The first embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, includes a piezoelectriccrystal circuit for vibrating the blade at an ultrasonic frequency, forexample, frequencies above 20,000 Hertz and a motor with an eccentricrotary load which vibrates the blade assembly at frequencies other thanultrasonic frequencies, for example, frequencies less than 20,000 Hertz.

The second embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 7-11. In this embodiment,the dermaplaning device only includes a piezoelectric crystal circuitattached to the blade.

The third embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 12, 13, 13A, 13G, 14 and15. In this embodiment, the dermaplaning device a motor with a rotaryeccentric load as a vibration generator.

A fourth exemplary embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 21-23, 24A, 24B,27A, 27B and 32-37. This embodiment includes a vibration generator, forexample, a motor and an eccentrically mounted mass mounted on the motorshaft, as illustrated in FIGS. 34 and 35.

FIGS. 25A, 25B and 26 illustrate an exemplary base for the deviceillustrated in FIGS. 21-23, 24A, 24B, 27A, 27B 36-38, 41 and 42. FIG. 28illustrates an exemplary blade assembly for the fourth embodiment. FIGS.41 and 42 illustrate an exemplary alternative embodiment of the bladeassembly illustrated in FIG. 28. FIGS. 29-31 illustrate an exemplaryblade retainer for the blade assemblies illustrated in FIGS. 28, 41 and42.

Fourth Embodiment

The fourth embodiment of the dermaplaning device is illustrated in FIGS.21-23 and 36-42. Referring first to FIGS. 21-23, 24A, 24B and 24C, anexemplary housing for the fourth exemplary embodiment of thedermaplaning device is illustrated. An exemplary outline is shown. FIGS.21-23 illustrate a housing the dermaplaning device with the bladeassembly installed while FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate the dermaplaningdevice with the blade removed. The housing can accommodate the bladeassembly illustrated in FIG. 28 as well as the blade assemblyillustrated in FIGS. 41 and 42 as well as any blade assembly which canbe inserted and removed and satisfy the functional interlocks of theblade control mechanism, as discussed below. The dermaplaning device,identified with the reference numeral 300 (FIGS. 21-24B), includes aremovable blade assembly 330, a handle portion 304 and a base portion306 form an outer housing.

FIGS. 25A, 25B and 26 illustrate an exemplary base or stand for storingand charging the dermaplaning device 300. In the exemplary embodimentshown, the exemplary stand 310 is configured to receive a dermaplaningdevice without a blade assembly, such as the device shown in FIGS. 24Aand 24B. One of the reasons for configuring the stand 310 in this manneris that the blade assembly is to be removed after each use for sanitaryreasons. As will be discussed in more detail below, a blade assemblycontrol mechanism in the device is configured to break off an upwardlyextending tab 352, for example, an L-shaped tab 352 or other upwardlyextending tab that is configured so that the blade assembly can be fullyinserted and broken off as the blade assembly is being removed. If anattempt is made to re-insert the blade assembly 330 after the tab isbroken off, the blade assembly control mechanism 309 will sense the lackof the tab 352 and prevent the device from operating.

As best shown in FIG. 25B, the exemplary base 308 includes a cradleportion 310 for receiving the base portion 306 of the dermaplaningdevice 300 and a stand portion 312 to enable the handle portion 304 ofthe device 300 to rest upon it. As shown, the cradle portion 310 isformed with a slot 313 contoured to the bottom support surfaces of thebase portion 306 of the dermaplaning device 300, as shown in FIGS. 24Aand 24B. The slot 313 is contoured so that the base portion 306 of thedermaplaning device 300 rests upon the bottom surfaces of the slot 310and the sidewalls of the base portion 306 of the dermaplaning device 300are in contact with the sidewalls 313 of the slot 310.

The stand portion 312 is used to support the dermaplaning device 300 inan upright position at approximately at an angle of 50.degree. from thehorizontal, as shown in FIG. 25A. A top surface 314 of the stand portion312 is angled to support the handle portion 304 intermediate the freeend.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the connection between thedermaplaning device 300 and the base 308 is a mechanical connection. Aswill be discussed in more detail below, the exemplary device may alsoinclude an induction charger. The primary winding of the inductioncharger is carried in the base and “connects” by magnetic induction to asecondary winding and a battery charger in the device 300. In such anembodiment shown, the dermaplaning device 300 is formed as a portabledevice and may include an internal rechargeable battery. The inductiontype battery charger may be implemented for charging the internalbattery. As will be discussed in more detail below, the internal batteryis charged by induction when the dermaplaning device 300 is seated inthe base 308. The components are configured so that the secondary of theinduction battery charger is within a predetermined distance from theprimary side of the induction battery charger. Thus, the internalbattery is charged even though there is no electrical contact betweenthe dermaplaning device 300 and the base 308.

Various alternate embodiments are also contemplated. One alternateembodiment contemplates an internal battery that is not re-chargeable.In such an embodiment, the non rechargeable battery is periodicallyreplaced. In other alternate embodiments which include re-chargeablebatteries, external electrical contacts are formed on the exterior ofthe dermaplaning device 300 that are configured to mate withcorresponding contacts on the base 308. In this embodiment, the externalcontacts on the base 308 are connected to an external source of AC or DCfor charging the internal rechargeable battery.

In yet another alternate embodiment, the dermaplaning device 300 ispowered from an external source of AC that is hardwired into the device300. This embodiment requires a constant source of AC power foroperation.

In the embodiment illustrated and described, the device includes aninternal rechargeable battery that is charged by an induction charger.The primary induction circuit discussed below is housed between thebottom surface of the base and the top surface of the plate 316 (FIG.26). The primary induction circuit is terminated at a fixed connector(not shown) that is accessible by way of a cut-out 322 in the bottomplate 316. An external connector 324 is configured to mate with thefixed connector. The external connector is connected to a cable that isconnected to an external source of electric power.

As shown in FIG. 26, the base 308 is tipped on its side in order toillustrate a bottom plate 316, attached to the bottom of the base 308 bya pair of fasteners 318 and 320. As illustrated in FIG. 27B, the spacebetween the bottom plate 316 and the bottom side of a top surface 317(FIG. 25B) of the base 308 may be used to carry primary side of thecharging circuit. In particular, several of the components including: aballast block 421, steel block 428, a magnet switch 427, and a printedcircuit board 429 are carried in the cradle portion 310 of the base 308.A socket 431 is accessible from the bottom of the base 308 for receivingthe internal connector 322 (FIG. 26) for connection to an external powersource (not shown). A magnet 404 carried by the device 300 is configuredto be aligned with the steel block 428 when the device 300 is receivedin the cradle portion 310 of the base 306. This causes the magneticswitch 427 to trip to indicate that the device 300 is in position forcharging. This causes a transmit coil 434 in the stand portion 312 (FIG.25B) of the base 306 to be connected to the external source of power.The transmit coil 434 is positioned in the stand portion 312 of thecradle portion 310 so as to be aligned with a receive coil 435 formed inthe handle portion 304 of the device 300. As such, when the device 300is seated in the base 308 and the external connector 324 (FIG. 26) isconnected to the socket 431 in the base 308 and to an external source ofpower, the power applied to the transmit coil 434 is coupled to thereceive coil 435 by magnetic induction to charge an internal battery 403carried by the device 300.

An exemplary blade assembly 330 is illustrated in FIG. 28. The bladeassembly 330 may be injection molded around the blade and configured sothat the body portion or blade holder 360 can slide between the rails334 (FIG. 24B) of the dermaplaning device 300. The exemplary bladeassembly 330 includes a body portion 360, a nose portion 362 and a mayinclude a safety cage portion 364. Alternatively, the safety cageportion 364 may be formed as part of the blade. The nose portion 362 isformed to fit into a cut-out 366 in the base portion 306 (FIG. 24A) ofthe dermaplaning device 300. The safety cage portion 364 extendsoutwardly from the bottom of the body portion 360. The safety cageportion 364 is formed with a plurality of outwardly extending teeth,generally identified with the reference numeral 368. The teeth 368extend substantially the entire length of the blade assembly 330. Theteeth 368 are spaced apart. The blade 364 is disposed slightly below thetips of the teeth 368, for example, as illustrated and discussed inconnection with FIG. 16a . In other words, the teeth extend farther outthan the edge of the blade. The distance between the tips of the teeth368 and the edge of the blade establishes the penetration of the blade.Typically, a penetration of several millimeters is suitable fornon-professional use.

As will be discussed in more detail below, the body portion 360 of theblade assembly 330 is formed to cooperate with a blade assembly controlmechanism, discussed below, to provide interlocks with respect tocertain aspects of the control logic. In particular, in an exemplaryembodiment, the control logic utilizes the configuration of the bodyportion 360 of the blade assembly 360 to perform one or more of thefollowing functions: [0091] Determine whether the blade assembly 330 isfully inserted into the dermaplaning device 300. [0092] Determinewhether the blade assembly 330 has been previously removed from thedevice 300.

Releasably “lock” the blade assembly 330 in a fully inserted position.

Each of these functions are described in detail. Several of thesefunctions are formed as interlocks. The interlocks are the result ofinteraction between the blade assembly 330 and the blade assemblycontrol mechanism 309 (FIGS. 27A, 36 and 37). In particular, the bodyportion 360 of the of the blade assembly 330 may be configured tocooperate with one or more mechanisms in the blade assembly controlmechanism 309 to provide one or more of the above-mentioned functions.

The blade assembly control mechanism 309 includes a body portion and oneor more micro-switches 408, 409 responsive to one or more spring loadedbullet pins 413, 414 which form electrical interlocks. The bullet pins413, 414 are biased downwardly. When the bullet pins 413, 414 are forcedupwardly, the micro-switches 408, 409 are actuated. The blade assemblycontrol mechanism 309 may also include mechanical interlocks. Forexample, the blade assembly control mechanism 309 may include a springloaded knife blade 422 that is biased downwardly. The spring loadedknife 422 is configured to break off the extending tab 352, as the bladeassembly is being removed. On re-insertion of the blade assembly 330,the spring loaded bullet pin 414 is not moved upwardly and themicro-switch 409 is not actuated. The blade assembly control mechanism309 may also include a one or more mechanical interlocks. For example,the blade assembly control mechanism 309 may also include spring loadedbullet pin 411 that is biased downwardly which cooperates with anarcuate notch 322 formed in the lower shelf surface 354 of the bladeassembly 330 in order to create a locking mechanism that is releasedwhen the blade assembly 330 is removed from the device 300.

Various types of locking mechanisms are contemplated for locking theblade assembly 330 in place during use. An exemplary locking mechanismis illustrated in FIGS. 27A and 27B. FIG. 27A illustrates an enlargedpartial sectional view of a head portion 307 of the dermaplaning device300. FIG. 27B is similar to FIG. 27A but is more detailed andillustrates the head portion 307 of the dermaplaning device 300 seatedin a base 308, as discussed above.

Referring first to FIG. 27A, an exemplary locking mechanism isillustrated as a spring loaded bullet pin 411 is carried by the bladeassembly control mechanism 309. The bullet pin 411 is configured tocooperate with an arcuate notch 336, formed in the body portion 360 ofthe blade assembly 330. As the blade assembly 330 is slid into place,the spring loaded bullet pin 411 slides along the top surfaces of thebody portion 360 of the blade assembly 330. As the blade assembly 330approaches its fully inserted position, the spring force urges thebullet pin 411 downwardly until it is seated in the arcuate notch 336formed at an end of the blade assembly 330, as shown in FIG. 27A, thuslocking the blade assembly 330 in place.

In order to remove the blade assembly 330, a lateral force, opposite theinsertion force, is applied to the blade assembly 330. The lateral forcecauses the bullet pin 411 to retract as its tip rides up the curvedsurface of the arcuate notch 336. Once the bullet pin 411 is free of thearcuate notch 336, the blade assembly 330 is essentially unlocked andthe blade assembly 330 can be removed.

Positive indication may also be provided to the control logic, for thedermaplaning device 300 to indicate that the blade assembly 330 is fullyinserted in the dermaplaning device 300. In particular, a pair ofmicro-switches 408 and 409 may be provided to provide a positiveindication that the blade assembly 330 is fully inserted in thedermaplaning device 300. These micro-switches 408 and 409 are actuatedby spring loaded bullet pins 411 and 414, respectively. In particular,the spring loaded bullet pin 411 is configured to actuate themicro-switch 408 while the spring loaded bullet pin 414 is configured toactuate the micro-switch 409. The bullet pins 411 and 414 ride along thetop surfaces of blade assembly 330 as it is being inserted or removedfrom the dermaplaning device 300. In particular, as the blade assembly330 is being inserted, the bullet pin 414 rides along an upper shelfsurface 350 (FIG. 28) of the body portion 360 of the blade assembly 330and initially activates the micro-switch 408. As the bullet pin 414 ismoved past the upper shelf surface 350 and onto a lower shelf surface354, the spring loaded bullet pin 414 is urged downwardly by the springforce, thus de-activating the micro-switch 408. As the blade assembly330 is continuously inserted, the bullet pin 413 is biased upwardly bythe tab 352 formed on an upper shelf surface 354 of the blade assembly,thereby actuating the micro-switch 414, which remains actuated while theblade assembly 330 is fully inserted into the dermaplaning device 300.At this point, both bullet pins 413 and 414 are biased upwardly, therebyactuating both micro-switches 408 and 409. As will be discussed below,the dermaplaning device 300 is inoperable until both micro-switches 408and 409 are actuated.

The dermaplaning device 300 may also be configured so that a bladeassembly 330 cannot be re-used once the blade assembly 330 has beenremoved from the device. Various mechanical interlock systems arecontemplated for this function. An exemplary interlock system isillustrated in FIGS. 27A and 27B. For example, a spring loaded knifeblade 422 extends downwardly from the blade assembly control mechanism309 extends into the path of the blade assembly 330 as it is beinginserted and removed from the dermaplaning device 300. A forward surface353 of the knife blade 422 is formed with a cammed surface. As such, asthe blade assembly 330 is being inserted, the extending tab 352 on theblade body 360 of the blade assembly 330 causes the knife blade 422 topush the knife blade 351 upwardly against the spring force. As the bladeassembly 330 continues advancing toward a fully inserted position, theknife blade 422 returns to a normal position, as shown, under theinfluence of the spring.

When the blade assembly 330 is removed from the device, the tab 352 ofthe blade assembly 330 catches against a flat surface 355 of the knifeblade 351. In order to remove the blade assembly 330, a sufficientlateral force must be exerted to break the tab 352 to allow the bladeassembly 330 to be removed. After the tab 352 is broken off, the bladeassembly 330 can continue to be removed. The surfaces 337 and 339 willslide under the knife blade 351 to allow the blade assembly 330 to becompletely removed.

Once it is removed, the tab 352 will not be available on a re-insertionto activate bullet pin 414 and the micro-switch 409, thus preventingre-use of that blade assembly 330 and thus will not actuate themicro-switch 409 if the blade assembly 330 is re-inserted. As will bediscussed in more detail, unless both micro-switches 408 and 409 areactivated, the dermaplaning device 300 will not operate. Thus, the tab352 prevents the blade assembly 330 from being re-used.

Alternatively, the upper shelf surface can be extended further along thelength of the blade assembly 330 defining an extended upper shelfsurface to actuate the bullet pin 411 and the micro-switch 409 as theblade assembly is being fully inserted and as it is being fully removed.This configuration results in a reusable blade assembly.

As described below, any blade assembly used with the device 300 mustsatisfy two interlocks or conditions. The first interlock relates to themicro-switch 408. This micro-switch 408 indicates that a blade assemblyhas been inserted into the device 300. As discussed below, the firstinterlock alone is insufficient to enable the device 300 to be started.The second interlock relates to the micro-switch 409. This secondinterlock indicates that the blade assembly is fully inserted. Bothinterlocks are required before the device 300 can be enabled. Withreference to FIG. 27a , the second interlock is responsive to the springloaded bullet pin 413. The spring loaded bullet pin 413 will actuate themicro-switch 409 only if the tab 352 is in place. Once the tab 352 isbroken off, any attempts to reuse the blade assembly 330 will result inthe bullet pin being unable to move upwardly to actuate the micro-switch409.

Other variations of the blade assembly 330 illustrated in FIG. 28 arecontemplated. Any blade assembly that includes a body portion 360 thatis configured to be inserted and removed from the dermaplaning device300 and satisfy both interlocks with the blade assembly controlmechanism 309, i.e. actuate micro-switches 408 and 409, is considered tobe within the broad scope of the invention.

An exemplary alternative embodiment of the blade assembly 330 isillustrated in FIGS. 41 and 42 and identified with the reference numeral330′. The blade assembly 330′ lends itself to be re-used while stillsatisfying the various interlocks of the blade assembly controlmechanism 309 that allow the device 300 to work.

FIG. 41 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the alternative bladeassembly 330′ fully inserted into the device 300 while FIG. 32illustrates the alternative blade assembly 330′ in the process of beingremoved. Referring first to FIG. 41, the tab 352 in the blade assembly330, illustrated in FIG. 28, is replaced with a ramp 352′. Theconfiguration of the alternative blade assembly 330′ satisfies bathinterlocks discussed above. As the blade assembly 330′ is beinginserted, the spring loaded knife blade 351 and the bullet pin 414 slideup the ramp 352′. As the blade assembly 330′ reaches the fully insertedposition as shown in FIG. 41, the bullet pin 414 reaches the apex of theramp 352′. This causes the bullet pin 414 to move upwardly and actuatethe micro-switch 409 to indicate that the blade assembly 330′ is fullyinserted, thus satisfying the second interlock, discussed above. As theblade assembly 330′ is removed, as indicated in FIG. 42, the springloaded knife blade 351 rides up the ramp 352′ allowing the bladeassembly 330′ to be removed. The blade assembly 330′ can be re-inserted,as discussed above.

The alternative blade assembly 330′ also satisfies the first interlock.With reference to FIGS. 41 and 42, the alternative blade assembly 330′also includes a body portion 360′ having a top shelf 350′, similar tothe blade assembly 330. As such, as the alternative blade assembly 330′is inserted into the device 300, the bullet pin 411 contacts the topshelf 350′ of the alternative body portion 360′, which, in turn,actuates the micro-switch 408 thus satisfying the first interlock.

In order to be useable with the device 300, any alternative bladeassembly must be able to satisfy the two interlocks discussed above. Inother words, any alternative blade assembly must be able to actuate thelimit switches 408 and 409 when inserted. As discussed above,embodiments are contemplated which allow the blade assembly to bere-used after it has been removed from the device. Other embodiments arecontemplated that do not include the locking feature. In theseembodiments, the alternative body portion 360, is formed without anarcuate notch 336, as discussed above, in these embodiments, the springloaded bullet pin 413 would simply rest on a surface other than anarcuate surface that provides a locking feature.

FIGS. 36 and 37 illustrate a simplified drawing of the blade assemblycontrol mechanism 309. FIG. 36 illustrates the blade assembly 330 fullyinserted. FIG. 37 illustrates the blade assembly 330 (FIG. 28) removedfrom the blade assembly control mechanism 309. The blade assemblycontrol mechanism 309 is configured to carry one or more of the springloaded bullet pins 411, 413 and 414 and the spring loaded knife blade351. The blade assembly control mechanism 309 may also be configured tocarry the micro-switches 408 and 409. As mentioned above, themicro-switch 408 is responsive to the bullet pin 413 while themicro-switch 409 is responsive to the bullet pin 414. The micro-switches408 and 409 as well as the battery charging circuit and control circuitillustrated in FIG. 32 are connected together by way of a printedcircuit board (PCB) 405 (FIGS. 36 and 37) carried by blade assemblycontrol mechanism 309.

An exemplary electrical schematic diagram and an exemplary softwarelogic flow diagram are illustrated in FIGS. 32A and 33, respectively.Turning first to FIG. 32A, an exemplary embodiment of a battery chargingcircuit is illustrated. In particular, the battery charging circuit iscoupled to an external source of electric power by magnetic induction.In particular, a primary winding (not shown) is disposed in the base 308(FIG. 26). The device 300 is charged by magnetic induction charging andincludes a receive coil 435 (FIG. 27B) in the device 300 that cooperateswith a transmit coil 434 in the cradle portion of the base 308. Asmentioned above, the transmit coil 434 (FIG. 27B) as well as the balanceof the primary circuit are carried by the cradle portion 310 of the base308. When the device 300 is fully seated in the cradle portion 310 ofthe base 308, a magnetic switch 427, located in the base 308 will detectthe magnet 404 located in the belly of the device 300 and will connectthe primary winding 434 to the socket 431. If the connector 324 isconnected to a socket 431 and to an external source of power, a voltagewill be induced in the secondary winding 400 (FIG. 32), which in turn,is connected to a battery charger circuit for charging the internalbattery 403. The components of the primary side of the magneticinduction circuit are connected together by way of a PCB 429, located inthe cradle portion 308 of the base 306.

An exemplary configuration for the primary winding diameter 434 and thesecondary winding 435 diameter (FIG. 27B) is 16 mm by 3 mm with amaximum coupling distance of 5 mm. The secondary winding 435 isconnected to a bridge rectifier 402 which includes four diodes. Theoutput of the bridge rectifier 402 is an unregulated DC voltage that isconnected to a battery charger U1, for example, a lithium ion constantcurrent/constant voltage battery charger, Model No. TP054. A paircapacitors C1 and C2 are connected across the output of the bridgerectifier 402 to stabilize the voltage to the battery charger U1. Inaddition, a Zener diode D2 is also connected as a shunt regulator acrossthe output of the bridge rectifier 402 to protect the battery charger U1from voltages above the Zener voltage. A pair of series connectedresistors R1 and R3 are also connected across the rectified 402 output.These resistors form a voltage divider and are used to generate a signal<POW IN> representative of the voltage applied to the battery chargerU1. This signal <POW IN> is used to indicate to a microprocessor 404,for example, a Tenx Model No. TM57/PA10A-SOP16, that the chargingcircuit is connected to an external source of power.

A positive rail of the bridge rectifier 402 is connected to a voltageterminal VDD on the battery charger U1. A negative rail of the bridgerectifier 402 is connected to a ground terminal GND on the batterycharger U1. A charge status terminal CHRG on the battery charger U1 isused to indicate the state of charging. This terminal CHRG is applied tothe microprocessor 404 and is pulled low during battery charging and isthus used to indicate to the microprocessor 404 the presence of acharging cycle. A terminal BAT, connected to a positive rail of thebattery 403 for charging. A pair of voltage divider resistors R2 and R5is connected across the battery 403 to develop a signal <POW BT>. Thissignal <POW BT> is fed to the microprocessor 404.

The battery 403 is connected across the positive and negative rails ofthe charging circuit. Anytime, the battery 403 falls below 2.9 volts DC,the battery charger U1 causes a trickle charge to be applied to thebattery 403 until the battery 4031 reaches 2.9 volts DC. The batterycharger U1 then enters a constant current mode. The charging current isprogrammable and is programmed by the resistor R4 attached to the PROGterminal of the battery charger U1.

A voltage stabilizing capacitor C3 is connected across the input of avoltage regulator 406. The positive rail is also connected to an inputterminal Vin on a voltage regulator 406. The voltage regulator 406regulates the output voltage of the battery to a nominal 2.8 volts DC.The 2.8 volt DC output is available at an output terminal Vout of theregulator 406. A ground terminal GND on the voltage regulator 406 isconnected to system ground. A pair of capacitors C3 and C4 is connectedbetween the output terminal Vout on the voltage regulator 406 and systemground. These capacitors C3 and C4 are connected in parallel and areused to stabilize the output voltage at the output terminal Vout of theregulator 406.

The microprocessor 404 controls the dermaplaning device 300. Themicroprocessor 404 receives inputs from the micro-switches 408 and 409(FIG. 27A), the state of charging by the battery charger U1, the batteryvoltage, whether the on-off switch is actuated and whether thedermaplaning device 300 is being charged by the charging cradle portion308. In particular, a CHRG signal from the battery charger U1 is appliedto a port PA3 of the microprocessor 404. The CHRG signal is low when thebattery charger U1 is charging the battery 403. The signal CHRG is alsoapplied to a VDD pin of the microprocessor 404 by way of a currentlimiting resistor R7. During conditions when the battery 403 is notcharging the pin VDD is pulled up by way of 2.8 volts DC. Duringcharging, the pin VDD is pulled low indicating that the battery 403 isnot fully charged. The signal <POW IN> is applied to a transistor switchQ2. When input power is available, as indicated by the <POW IN> signal,the voltage regulator 406 and a current limiting resistor R11. When themicro-switch 409 is engaged as the blade assembly 330 is inserted intothe dermaplaning device 300, the switch 408 closes pulling the port PB0low. The micro-switch 408 is connected to a port PA0. In particular,port PA0 is normally pulled high by way of a 2.8 volt DC signal from thevoltage regulator 406 and a current limiting resistor R6. When themicro-switch 409 is engaged as the blade assembly 330 is inserted intothe dermaplaning device 300, the switch 406/407 closes pulling the portPA0 low. An on-off switch 406/407 is connected to port PB2 of themicroprocessor 404. When the switch 406/407 is depressed, the port PB2is pulled low, causing the motor 413 to be turned on, as discussedbelow.

As will be discussed below in connection with the control logic, themicroprocessor 404 outputs a signal <MOT> to control the motor 413 thatforms part of a vibration generator. The microprocessor 404 alsocontrols LED0. The LED0 is connected between the output voltage of theregulator and a port PA1 by way of a current limiting resistor R8. Themicroprocessor 404 also develops a feedback signal <AD MOT> that is usedto stabilize the vibration and to make it independent of the batterylevel.

An exemplary motor control circuit is illustrated. As shown, the motor413 is powered from 4.2 volts DC, available at the positive terminal ofthe battery 403. The motor 413 is connected between the 4.2 volts DC andground by way of a switching circuit and a feedback circuit. The motor413 is connected between 4.2 volts DC, available at the battery 403 andground by way of a switch circuit 412 and a resistor R12. The switchcircuit 412 includes a switching transistor Q1 that is driven by the<MOT> signal by way of a current limiting resistor R9. When the signal<MOT> is asserted by the microprocessor 404, the transistor switch Q1will cause the motor 413 to be connected to ground by way of theresistor R12, thus turning the motor on. A capacitor C6 stabilizes thevoltage to the motor. When the motor 413 is turned off, a free-wheelingdiode D3 provides a current path. The diode D4 blocks the motor currentfrom bypassing the switching circuit 412.

A feedback circuit 414 stabilizes the operation of the motor 413 andessentially isolates it from the level of the battery 403. Nominally,the battery 403 is at 4.2 volts DC. Once the motor 413 is turned on, afeedback signal <AD MOT> goes high and applies about 2.8 volts DC acrossthe resistor R13. A capacitor C8 stabilizes this voltage. The resistorsR10 and R13 form a voltage divider to provide a portion of the 2.8 voltsfrom the <AD MOT> signal across the resistor R12. The voltage across R10is stable and is applied to the resistor R12. The capacitor C7stabilizes the voltage applied to the resistor R12. The constant voltageacross R12 will cause a constant current to flow through the motor 413irrespective of the level of the battery 403. The constant current willcause the motor to operate at a constant speed since the speed of a DCmotor is proportional to current.

The software flow diagram that is executed by the microprocessor 404(FIG. 3 is illustrated in FIG. 33. Initially, when the on/off switch406/407 (FIG. 27B) is depressed in step 420, battery power is connectedto the dermaplaning device 300, as indicated in step 424. Next in step424, the system checks whether a blade assembly 330 is detected. Moreparticularly, the system checks whether the micro-switches 408 and 409(FIG. 27A) have been actuated-indicating that a blade assembly 330 hasbeen full inserted into the device 300. If a blade assembly has not beendetected, the system loops back to step 422 and keeps checking for theinsertion of the blade assembly 330. Once a blade assembly 330 isinserted into the device 300, the motor 413 is started in step 424. Inparticular, the microprocessor 404 generates a <MOT> which is applied togate of the transistor Q1 to turn the transistor Q1 on. This completesthe circuit from the 4.2 volt supply voltage through the series motor tothe ground by way of the resistor RU. The microprocessor 404 alsogenerates the <AD MOT> signal to stabilize the speed of the motor 404and isolate the speed of the motor 404 from the voltage of the battery403. In addition, the microprocessor 404 illuminates the LED0 and causesit to blink with two long and two short pulses.

The system checks in step 426 whether the on/off switch 406/407 (FIG.27A) has been switched off. If so, the system loops back to step 420 andwaits for the switch 406/407 to be turned back on. If the switch 406/407has not been turned off, the system checks in step 428 whether the bladeassembly 330 has been at least partially released. In particular, as theblade assembly 330 is partially removed to the point the micro-switch409 (FIG. 27A) is de-actuated, the microprocessor 404 causes the LED0 toblink at 4 KHz in step 430. As the blade assembly 330 is removed to thepoint the second micro-switch 408 is de-actuated, as indicated in step432, the LED0 is turned steady on in step 434. The system then loopsback to step 422 and waits for the blade assembly 330 to be detected.

After the system checks whether the on/off switch 406/407 has beendepressed in step 426 and after the system the system checks whether theblade assembly 330 is fully inserted into the device 300 in step 428,the system checks in step 436 whether an external source of power hasbeen connected to the primary winding 434 of the charger circuit, thevoltage VDD is detected by the microprocessor 404 by way of a power insignal <POW IN>. The power in signal <POW IN> is a signal at thejunction of the series connected resistors R1 and R3. The seriallyconnected resistors R1 and R3 are in parallel with the output if thebridge rectifier 402. Thus, anytime an external source of power isconnected to the primary winding 434 (FIG. 27A), the power is induced inthe secondary winding 435, which causes an AC voltage across theresistors R1 and R3. This voltage, in turn, causes the signal <POW IN>to have a positive voltage indicating that the external power has beenapplied to the primary winding 434 and that the primary winding 434 isin the cradle 308 to cause the voltage on the primary winding 434 to becoupled to the secondary winding 400, as indicated in step 436. Once avoltage on the secondary winding 435 has been detected, themicroprocessor 404 causes the LED0 to blink with four (4) long pulses instep in step 438.

The system also determines when the battery charge is complete. This isdone by monitoring the CHRG pin on the battery charger as indicated instep 440. Once the charge is complete, the microprocessor 404 turns theLED0 steady on in step 442 to indicate that the external source of powermay be disconnected in step 444. Once the external source of power isremoved, the signal <POW IN> goes low causing the system loops back tostep 422.

FIG. 34 provides exemplary details for the vibration generator. Inparticular, the vibration generator 450 includes a motor 452 having ashaft 452 and a counterweight 454. The counterweight 454 iseccentrically configured and is attached to the motor shaft 452 so as torotate with the motor shaft 452 without slippage. As the motor shaft 452rotates, the counterweight 454 rotates. Because the counterweight 454 iseccentrically, i.e. not symmetrically, disposed relative to the motorshaft 452, rotation of the counterweight 454 causes vibrations to betransferred to the blade assembly 330, thus causing the blade assembly330 to vibrate.

The counterweight 450 may be 3 mm in length and have a radius of 1.9 mm.The speed of the motor 440 is 10,000 RPM. As such, when the motor isenergized with 1.5 volts DC and an operating current of 50 mA, thevibration generator 450 generates sub-sonic frequencies.

With reference to FIG. 27B, the dermaplaning device 300 includes a tophousing portion 401 and a base housing portion 430. These housingportions 401 and 430 may be fastened together by various conventionalmeans. For example, screws may be used and covered with screw covers,such as the screw cover 432. The sides of the housing are shown in FIGS.24A and 24B The top of the housing is shown in FIG. 23.

An exemplary blade retainer 370 is illustrated in FIGS. 29-31. The bladeretainer 370 is used to carry extra blade assemblies 330. As shown inFIG. 29, the exemplary blade retainer 370, as shown, includes anexemplary six (6) slots 372 for carrying six (6) blade assemblies 330.The blade assemblies 330 and 330″ are oriented in the blade retainer 370to enable the blade assemblies 330″ to be loaded directly into thedermaplaning device 300 without requiring the user to touch the bladeassembly 330″. As shown in FIGS. 31-33, the blade retainer 370 is formedin an exemplary oval shape with the slots 372 formed perpendicular tothe major axis of the oval.

Referring to FIGS. 38-40, an alternate embodiment of the blade retainer370 illustrated in FIGS. 29-31 is includes a plurality of slots 372 forcarrying alternative blade assemblies 330″, as best illustrated in FIG.39. As shown best in FIG. 39, each blade assembly 330″ includes one ormore notches 333, 335 (FIG. 39) adjacent the slots 332 (FIG. 28) on eachside of the blade assembly 330. These notches 333, 335 (FIG. 39)cooperate with one or more “L” shaped arms 337 (FIG. 40) adjacent theslots 372 (FIG. 29) in the blade retainer 370′ which have an extendinghorizontal leg portion 339 (FIG. 38) that is configured to be receivedin the notches 333 (FIG. 39) on each side of the slots 372 in the bladeretainer 370 which hold both sides of the of blade assembly 330″ (FIG.28).

The “L” shaped arms 339 (FIGS. 38 and 40) are beneath the slots 332 onthe sides of the blade assembly 330″ (FIG. 28). This configurationenables the rails 334 (FIG. 38) on the device 300 to be received in theslots 332 on the blade assembly 330″, as generally shown in FIGS. 38 and39.

FIG. 38 illustrates a blade assembly 330″ just before being loaded intoa device 300. In order to load a blade assembly 330″ into the device300, the rails 334 on the device 300 are aligned with the slots 370 onthe blade assembly 330″. The device 300 is then inserted toward theblade retainer 370′ to enable the rails 334 to be received in the slots370 on the blade retainer 370′. Once, the rails 334 on the device 300are received in the slots 370, the device 330 is moved toward the nose362 of the blade assembly 330″, as shown in FIG. 39. When the bladeassembly 330′ is fully loaded, the device 300 is removed from the bladeretainer 370′. The “L” shaped legs 337 are flexible and allow the bladeassembly 330″ to be removed from the blade retainer 370′ with littleupward force.

The symmetry of the device 300 makes it suitable for easily treatingboth the left and right sides of a person's face. The handle portion 304(FIG. 21) is angled to be 40.degree. to 60.degree. with respect to thehorizontal, preferably 50.degree. In addition, the device 300 iscontoured to treat both sides of a person's face in a downward motion.To treat the right side of a person's face, the device 300 may be heldwith a person's right hand. Similarly, to treat the left side of aperson's face, the device may be held with the persons left hand.

EMBODIMENTS ONE THROUGH THREE

Outer Housing

As mentioned above, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary outer housing,generally identified with the reference numeral 20 that can be used withthe various embodiments that include piezo-electric crystal and circuitand/or a motor and an optional rheostat for controlling the speed of themotor, for example, illustrated in FIGS. 2-6 and FIGS. 12-15. The outerhousing 20 may be formed as a cylindrical hollow member closed on eachend and formed in two parts by way of injection molded plastic, forexample, or other material. Specifically, the outer housing 20 includesan end cap 21 which forms a handle portion and a top cap 24 which formsa cover portion. The cover portion 24 may be configured to attach to amain housing 26, discussed below, at a parting line 27. The handleportion 21 attaches to the main housing 26 at a parting line 30. In thisexemplary embodiment, an on-off switch and optional integrated LED(light emitting diode), generally identified with the reference numeral29, for controlling power to the device is carried by the main housing26 and may be exposed between the handle portion 21 and the coverportion 24. As discussed in more detail below, an optional thumb wheelcontrol switch 31, carried by the main housing 26, may be used tocontrol the speed of the motor 34.

FIG. 7 illustrates an alternative outer housing, generally identifiedwith the reference numeral 23. The outer housing 23 is used inembodiments that do not include a rheostat and optional thumbwheel.

As used herein, the term housing refers to the outer housing 20 (FIG. 1)and 23 (FIG. 7) individually as well as the combination of the outerhousing 21, 23 in combination with the main housing 28 (FIG. 2),individually and collectively.

Various embodiments of the blade assembly are contemplated. For example,FIGS. 13a-13f illustrate an embodiment with a 2 piece blade assemblywhich includes a scalpel and a removable blade. In this embodiment, thescalpel may be fixedly mounted to the main housing or alternatively maybe coupled to the main housing with a bayonet mount or otherconventional coupling means.

First Embodiment

Referring first to FIGS. 2-6, a first embodiment of the invention isillustrated and described and identified with the reference numeral 85.The first embodiment of the invention includes a main housing 28, apiezo-electric crystal 32, a DC motor 34, an eccentric rotary load 36,coupled to a shaft 38 and a power supply, such as a battery 22. It isfurther contemplated that the power supply for the device can be analternating current power supply. Such alternating current powersupplies are well known in the art.

The main housing 28 may be made from an electrically conductive materialforming a battery holder portion, generally identified with thereference numeral 40 defining a positive battery contact 42 and anegative battery contact 44. As will be discussed in more detail, below,a portion of the wiring between the various devices can be accomplishedby way of a printed circuit board 45 which may be formed from a flexibleprinted circuit board. Alternatively, the printed circuit board 45 maybe omitted and the connections between the various devices can be madewith electrical wiring.

One end 46 of the main housing 28 may be formed with a reduced diametercylindrical portion 48 which accomplishes several functions. First, asbest shown in FIG. 3, an interior portion of the reduced diametercylindrical portion 48 is configured to provide a friction fit for thepiezoelectric crystal 32. Second, as best shown in FIG. 17, the exteriorportion of the reduced diameter cylindrical portion 48 provides abayonet interface for an exemplary replaceable blade 50 mounted with abayonet interface that cooperates with the bayonet interface on theexterior portion of the reduced diameter portion 48. In accordance withan important aspect of the invention, a safety cage 66 (FIG. 16a ) fitsover the blade 50 to limit the penetration of the blade 50 into thefacial skin.

Turning to FIG. 3, a sectional view of the first embodiment of thedermaplaning device 85, is illustrated. FIG. 3 illustrates the mainhousing 26 in detail and how all of the various components fit into it.As shown, the various components may be wired and connected, forexample, by soldering to the printed circuit board 45.

As mentioned above, this embodiment includes a piezo-electric crystalfor vibrating the blade 46 at an ultrasonic frequency defining anultrasonic mode of operation. The device may also include a DC motorwith at least one eccentric rotary loads, generally identified with thereference numeral 51 for generating a vibration frequency other than anultrasonic vibration frequency defining a sub-ultrasonic frequency mode.The eccentric may be formed as a semi-circular disc 51. A stationarybearing 53 may be disposed axially outwardly from the disc 51 tostabilize the motor shaft 32. Depending on the speed of rotation of themotor shaft, a vibration will be created which will be transmitted tothe blade assembly 50.

Driver circuits that drive piezo-electric crystals to generateultrasonic sound waves/vibrations are well known in the art. Suchcircuits normally include an alternating current or voltage applied tothe piezo-electric crystal. Examples of such driver circuits aredisclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,509,626; 3,967,143 and US PatentApplication Publication No. US 2003/0233085 A1. Such a driver circuit isalso disclosed in South Korean patent publication no. KR 2004 0022550,all incorporated herein by reference. All references to a piezo electricdevices are to be understood to include the driver circuit that causesthe piezoelectric device to generate ultrasonic sound waves/vibrations.The driver circuit including its respective components may be disposedon the printed circuit board 45.

FIGS. 4-6 illustrate the electrical details for controlling a device 50that includes a piezoelectric element 32 and a DC motor 34 with at leastone eccentric rotary load 51. A key aspect of the control is an optionalexemplary 4-position rotary switch 31, as illustrated in FIGS. 4a-4d .Such 4 position switches are commonly available and include 4 wires.Normally open rotary contacts are provided between terminals 3 and 4 forcontrolling power to the piezo-electric crystal 32 and between terminal1 and 2 for controlling power to the DC motor 34. The terminals 2 and 3are connected together and to the positive terminal of the battery 22.

In a first position of the rotary switch 31, as shown in FIG. 4a , thecontact between terminals 3 and 4 for controlling the power to thepiezo-electric crystal 32 is open as is the contact between theterminals 1 and 2 for controlling power to the DC motor 34 is open. Assuch in the position illustrated in FIG. 4a , no power is delivered toeither the piezo-electric crystal 32 or the motor 34. In a secondposition of the rotary switch 31, as illustrated in FIG. 4b , thecontact between the terminals 3 and 4 is closed, thus providing power,i.e. connecting the .+−.battery terminal, to the piezoelectric crystal32. Since the contact between the terminals 1 and 2 is open, no power isdelivered to the motor 34 when the switch 31 is in the position, asillustrated in FIG. 4b . FIG. 4c illustrates another OFF position inwhich the contact between the terminals 3 and 4 and the contact betweenthe terminals 1 and 2 are both open, thus disconnecting the power fromboth the piezo-electric crystal 32 and the motor 34. FIG. 4d illustratesa position of the switch 31 in which the contact between the terminals 1and 2 is closed thus providing power to the motor 34. Since the contactbetween terminals 3 and 4 is open in this position, no power isdelivered to the piezoelectric crystal 32 in this position.

An exemplary schematic diagram for the dermaplaning device 85 isillustrated in FIG. 5. As shown, the circuit is powered by the battery22. As discussed above, the rotary switch 31 enables the battery 22 tobe selectively connected to the piezo-electric crystal 32 oralternatively to motor 34 defining an ultrasonic mode or asub-ultrasonic frequency mode, respectively. Optional LEDs 54 and 56 maybe provided to indicate the mode of the device 50. In particular, theLED 54 is connected in parallel with the piezo-electric crystal 32.Thus, any time the piezo-electric crystal 32 is connected to thepositive terminal of the battery 22, the LED 54 is illuminatedindicating that the device 50 is operating in an ultrasonic mode ofoperation. Similarly the optional LED 56 is connected essentially inparallel with the motor 34. Thus, any time the motor 34 is connected tothe positive terminal of the battery 22, the LED 56 will be illuminatedindicating a sub-ultrasonic mode of operation. Both LEDs 54 and 56 willbe off when neither the piezoelectric crystal 32 nor the motor 34 areconnected to the positive terminal of the battery 22.

An optional rheostat 58 may be connected in series with the motor 34. Asis known in the art, the speed of a DC motor can be control the voltageapplied to the motor. The optional rheostat 58 is adjustable and can becontrolled to vary its resistance, which, in turn, varies the currentand voltage to the motor 34. By varying the speed of the motor 22, thevibration frequency can be varied. As shown in FIG. 1, an optional thumbwheel 31 is accessible from outside the housing 20 to allow the rheostat58 to be adjusted. The motor 34 may be operated at 600 RPM, for example.

FIG. 6 is an optional and exemplary printed circuit board 45 which maybe used to connect the various components to the circuit. It iscontemplated that the configuration of the printed circuit board 45 maybe different from that shown. Also, various conventional techniques arecontemplated for connecting the various components to the printedcircuit board 45. One such technique is soldering. Alternatively, theprinted circuit board 45 can be omitted and connections between thevarious components be made with electrical wires. It is alsocontemplated that the rotary switch 31, as well as the optional LEDs 54and 56 and the optional rheostat 58 can be mounted on the printedcircuit board 45.

Second Embodiment

The second embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 8-11 and identified withthe reference number 185. In this embodiment, like components areidentified with like reference numerals with a 1 prefix. In thisembodiment, the dermaplaning device 185 only includes a piezoelectriccrystal 132. As shown in FIG. 10, a simple single pole single throwmicro switch 129 may be used to control the piezo-electric vibrationdevice 132. An optional LED 154 may be included as part of the microswitch 129. A printed circuit board 145 may be provided for making theconnections between the various devices. Moreover, the micro switch 129may be mounted to the printed circuit board 145.

Third Embodiment

The third embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 12-15 and identified withthe reference numeral 285. In this embodiment, like components areidentified with like reference numerals with a 2 prefix. In thisembodiment, the dermaplaning device 285 only includes a motor 234 andthe eccentric rotary load 249 supported by a bearing 253. As shown inFIG. 14, a simple single pole single throw micro switch 229 may be usedto control power to the motor 234. An optional LED 256 may be includedas part of the micro switch 229. In addition, an optional rheostat 258may be provided for controlling the speed of the motor 234. As shownbest in FIG. 13, the rheostat 258 includes a thumb wheel 231. The thumbwheel 231 may optionally be mounted as shown in FIG. 1 to enableadjustment of the motor speed from the outside of the device 250. to Aprinted circuit board 245 may be provided for making the connectionsbetween the various devices. Moreover, the micro switch 229 may bemounted to the printed circuit board 245.

An alternate embodiment of the embodiment in FIG. 12 is illustrated inFIG. 13a . In this embodiment, like reference numerals with an “a”suffix are used to identify like parts. In this embodiment no rheostatis provided. Also, in this embodiment as well as the embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 12-15, the printed circuit board may be eliminated.In this embodiment as well as the other embodiments, the blade orscalpel 250 a can be bayonet mounted or fixedly mounted to the housing228 a.

In all of such embodiments, the scalpel or blade 250 a can be a onepiece blade and configured with a bayonet mount, as illustrated anddescribed above. Alternatively, the blade 250 a can be formed as a 2piece device; namely a scalpel 250 a with a removable blade 249 a, asshown in FIG. 13a . In such an embodiment, the scalpel 250 a may befixedly mounted to the housing 228 a. Other configurations of a scalpelwith a removable blade are also considered to be within the broad scopeof the claims.

Scalpels with removable blades are extremely well known in the art. Anexample of a scalpel with a removable blade is illustrated and describedin detail in U.S. Pat. No. 1,139,796, hereby incorporated by reference.In embodiments with a removable blade 249 a, a safety cage 266 a, asdiscussed above, may be formed on the blade 249 a. The deviceillustrated in FIG. 13a may also include a safety cover, for example, asafety cover (not shown) similar to the safety cover 252 as shown inFIG. 12 which fits over the scalpel 250 a and the removable blade 249 a.

FIG. 13a illustrates the scalpel 250 a with a removable blade 249 aattached thereto. FIGS. 13b-13d illustrate bow the removable blade 249 ais attached to the scalpel 250 a. The scalpel 250 a is formed with aplurality of posts, for example 3 posts, identified with the referencenumerals 253 a, 255 a and 257 a. These posts 253 a, 255 a and 257 a areformed on the scalpel and extend outwardly therefrom on one side asshown. These posts 253 a, 255 a and 257 a are formed to co-operate withslots 259 a, 261 a and 263 a, formed in the removable blade 253 a. Asshown best in FIG. 13b , the slots 259 a and 259 b are open slots andare configured to receive the extending posts 255 a and 257 a on thescalpel 250 a. An aperture 263 a is formed in the blade 250 a forreceiving the post 253 a formed on the scalpel 250 a. As is apparentfrom FIGS. 13e and 13f , the post 253 a is shorter than the posts 255 aand 257 a. This feature allows the post 253 a to snap in place and bereceived in the aperture 249 a and essentially lock the blade 249 a inplace with respect to the scalpel 250 a.

Another alternate embodiment of the embodiment in FIG. 12 is illustratedin FIG. 13g . In this embodiment, like reference numerals with an “b”suffix are used to identify like parts. This embodiment is similar tothe embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13a except in this embodiment, thedevice 285 is provided with a one-piece blade 252 b that attaches to thedevice by way of a bayonet mount, as discussed above. In this embodimenta blade cover 270 b is provided. The blade cover 270 b may be providedwith a c-type cross-section and formed with a spring force causingbuttons, generally identified with the reference numeral 272 b to pinchthe blade 252 b once the cover 270 b is slid over the blade 252 b.

The Blade

An important aspect of the invention relates to the blade assembly 50,150, 250. The blade assembly 50, 150, 250 is best shown in FIGS. 16-18.As best shown in FIG. 18, the blade assembly 50, 150, 250 is mounted toa generally cylindrical portion 60 and is configured to mate with thecylindrical portion 48 (FIG. 2) attached to the handle portion 21 (FIG.1). The blade assembly 50, 150, 250 is only used on a single user. Assuch, the blade 62 assembly 50, 150, 250 is removable for disposal andreplaced for each new user and for each use.

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 18, the cylindrical portion 60 of the bladeassembly 50, 150, 250 is configured to attach to the cylindrical portion48 attached to the handle portion 21, for example by way of a bayonetconnection. Other connections are also suitable.

In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the bladeassembly 50, 150, 250 includes a surgical blade or scalpel 62 and amolded housing 64, shown best in FIG. 17 with a wedge shaped crosssection. The blade 62 extends along an axis generally parallel to or atan acute angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the device housing20 (FIG. 1), 23 (FIG. 7). In order to limit the depth of the cut intothe skin and to prevent non-professionals from accidentally cuttingbelow the epidermis layer of facial skin, a safety cage 66 is juxtaposedover an extending portion of the blade 62. More particularly, the safetycage 66 extends over a cutting edge 67 of the blade 62 and extends fromthe blade housing 64. As best shown in FIG. 16a , the safety cage 66 isformed as an exemplary comb-like structure defining posts 68 and valleys70. The comb-like structure 66 may be injection molded over the cuttingedge 67 of the blade 62. Alternatively, the comb-like structure 66 maybe snapped in place over the cutting edge 67 of the blade 62. The depthof the valleys 70 limits the depth of the cut by limiting the depth ofthe valleys 70, for example, to several millimeters. As such, the bladeassembly 50, 150, 250 is rendered safe for use by non-professionals as apart of a dermaplaning device.

As mentioned above, two piece blades or scalpels may be used. In suchembodiments, the safety cage is provided over the cutting edge portionof the removable blade.

Process

A process for treating facial skin is described for non-professionals.An exemplary process for treating facial skin by the non-professional isdiscussed below which includes dermaplaning.

1. Cleanse: This step prepares the skin for the dermaplaning procedure.It effectively removes makeup as well as product residue, while riddingthe skin of surface oils. Moisten face with warm water, apply a smallamount of cleanser to moist palm, form lather with hands and massageonto face. Rinse with warm water and repeat. Blot skin dry

2. Dermaplane: Use a hand-held dermaplaning device which includes ablade and embedded vibration technology, for example, as disclosedabove, that is safe for use by non-professionals which safely exfoliatesthe skin. Dermaplaning devices with a blade and embedded vibrationtechnology other than the one described herein are also suitable. Thevibration technology maximizes the blades efficiency while stimulatingmicro circulation and lymphatic activity. Skin is not only deeplyexfoliated, but all traces of built up debris and vellus hair areremoved. Skin is left baby soft, product penetration is maximized.

Begin by grasping the and switching on the device. A subtle vibrationwill immediately be noticed.

As illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 20, begin the treatment at the center offace focusing on right side, using gentle yet firm pressure, move thedevice across forehead and towards hair line, following the contours ofyour face, avoiding the brow and eye area.

Once you have completed the upper face move to the lower face and beginagain at the centerline using the same gentle but firm pressure movingthe device along the jawline up toward the ear. Continue working up andonto the cheek moving from the nose toward the ear following the contourof the cheek. The nose and eye area should be avoided. When workingaround the mouth use short strokes with gentle yet firm pressure andmove toward the vermillion border (edge of lip) and avoid the surface ofthe lip.

The dermaplaning device is very efficient at exfoliating the skin and nomore than two passes in any area are necessary. When the right side ofthe face is completed, move to the left side, following the samepattern.

3. Peel A chemical peel completes the exfoliation process. Variouschemical peels are suitable. For example, a chemical peel comprising ablend of alpha and beta hydroxy acids combined with an anti-oxidantcompound, for example, Bioperfect's Anti-Oxidant Complex, completes theexfoliation process and amplifies cellular turnover to help stimulateproduction of collagen. This peel is to be used immediately followingthe use of the dermaplaning device.

Open prepared peel pad. Begin on forehead, apply peel to entire face andneck beginning on forehead and using a circular motion. Avoid contactwith delicate eye and lip areas.

4. Post Treatment Comforting Balm—Use a balm that has been specificallyformulated to comfort, nourish, and protect delicate post treatmentskin. The balm is absorbed deeply into newly exfoliated skin, leading tooptimum absorption of our proprietary multi-dimensional complex ofcosmeceuticals.

Use a small amount and massage into face and neck avoiding eye area.

Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present inventionare possible in light of the above teachings. Thus, it is to beunderstood that within the scope of the appended claims, the inventionmay be practiced otherwise than as specifically described above.

What is claimed is:
 1. A blade assembly comprising: a blade holderhaving an enlarged nose portion only at one end thereof and an uppershelf surface extending in a rearward direction away from the noseportion, the blade holder having a first blade holder side and a secondblade holder side; a single blade carried by the blade holder anddisposed at a lower portion of the blade holder, the blade extendingalong a centerline of the blade holder and in the rearward directionaway from the nose portion, the blade located between the first bladeholder side and the second blade holder side, the blade having a cuttingedge, a first blade side and a second blade side, the first and secondblade sides being disposed adjacent the cutting edge; a safety cagefixed over the first and second blade sides, the safety cage constructedand arranged to limit the amount of penetration of the blade into facialskin; and a pair of parallel aligned slots including a first slot and asecond slot, the first slot disposed along a length of the first bladeholder side and below the upper shelf surface, the second slot disposedalong a length of the second blade holder side, each slot constructedand arranged to slidingly receive a complementary rail of a hand-helddermaplaning device for mounting the blade assembly thereto.
 2. Theblade assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein the blade holder is formedwith a lower shelf surface.
 3. The blade assembly as recited in claim 2,further including an upwardly extending tab formed on the lower shelfsurface.
 4. The blade assembly as recited in claim 3, wherein the tab isan L-shaped tab.
 5. The blade assembly as recited in claim 2, furtherincluding an upwardly extending ramp formed on the lower shelf portion.6. The blade assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein the upper shelfsurface and the lower shelf surface are constructed and arranged tocooperate with a blade assembly control mechanism of the hand-helddermaplaning device.
 7. The blade assembly as recited in claim 1,wherein the safety cage is configured with teeth.
 8. The blade assemblyas recited in claim 1, in combination with the hand-held dermaplaningdevice.
 9. The combination as recited in claim 8, wherein the hand-helddermaplaning device comprises a housing formed with the complementaryrails, the rails being spaced apart, wherein the pair of parallelaligned slots are constructed and arranged to slide onto thecomplementary rails.
 10. The combination as recited in claim 8, whereinthe hand-held dermaplaning device comprises a cut-out at a front regionthereof, the cut-out constructed and arranged to receive the noseportion of the blade holder.
 11. The blade assembly as recited in claim1, wherein a pair of parallel aligned slots are disposed above thecutting edge.